Last updated: 23 Oct 2025
US Virgin Islands
About
| The result of the US Virgin Islands' history and location is a unique blend of Danish heritage and American modernity combined with a relaxed and friendly attitude typical of the Caribbean. Add to this miles of glistening beaches, first-class diving facilities and verdant tropical vegetation. Explore St Croix, the largest of the US Virgin Islands. Christiansted is one of the two major towns showing early Danish influence. Sail to the much smaller Buck Island, easily reached via the 10km (6 mile) channel that separates it from Christiansted. Offshore is one of the world’s most impressive marine gardens, maintained by the National Park Service as an underwater protected reef. Head to cosmopolitan St Thomas, the second-largest of this chain of islands. Fish for blue and white marlin, sailfish and wahoo; the North Drop is the best-known spot. Sport fishing charters with experienced skippers are widely available. Local fishermen are keen to encourage the ‘catch-and-release’ method in order to preserve fish species. Fishing competitions, such as the Bastille Day Kingfish Tournament or the Open Atlantic Blue Marlin Tournament attract amateurs and professionals from all over the world. |
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| Capital: | Charlotte Amalie (St. Thomas) |
| Currency: | US Dollar (USD) |
| Language: | English (Official), Spanish, Creole |
| Dialling code from SA: | + 1 340 |
| Time Zones: | UTC / GMT -4 (6 hours behind South Africa) |
| Side of the Road: | Left |
| Best Time to go: | Dec - May |
| Best For: | Island Relaxation , Historical Sites |
| Plugs: | 115 volts AC, 60Hz. American-style plugs with two flat pins (with or without round grounding pin) are used. |
| Drinking Water: | Mains water in hotels and towns is safe to drink. Outside of the main towns, water may be contaminated. |
| Health: | There are adequate and well-equipped medical facilities, however visitors are required to pay for these services. Comprehensive health insurance is recommended. |
| Customs: | Swimwear should be reserved for the beach / pool. In the US Virgin Islands, politeness is important. Greet people before asking questions or requesting assistance. |
Issuing Authorities
Public Holidays 2025: Jan 1, 6, 20; Feb 17; Mar 31; Apr 17-18; May 26; Jul 3; Sep 1; Oct 13; Nov 1, 11, 27; Dec 25, 26
Public Holidays 2026: Jan 1, 6, 19; Feb 16; Mar 31; Apr 2-3, 6; May 25; Jul 3-4; Sep 7; Oct 12; Nov 1, 11, 26; Dec 25, 26
Visa Requirements
Visas are required for South African passport holders. Please see USA.
Travel Health
| Compulsory: | None |
| Recommended Travel Vaccines: | Hepatitis B, Tetanus, Polio |
